Claire Rater holds Master’s degrees in Epidemiology and Social Work and was awarded a Fulbright U.S. Student Program research grant for the 2024-25 academic year.
Her research is on rural health management of snakebite envenoming in the Andean mountain range. Colombia, home to the world’s most diverse reptile population, including the highest number of venomous snakes, provides the backdrop for her study, where Claire is interviewing healthcare professionals and community members in rural Colombian communities. Alongside her research team, she will also provide education on snakebite prevention and treatment. Their ultimate goal is to bring attention to the issue of snakebite envenoming and to highlight the strengths of Colombia’s rural health systems.